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Hard to Resist #3
ΕΞΙΛΕΩΣΗ
The Redemption is a standalone novel. The Resistance is a standalone novel, but the two books share characters and background.
He was everything she never wanted. Yet, she couldn’t stop thinking about him.
Soulful, amber eyes
A sex, drugs, and rock n’roll reputation
A body that beckoned for sin
Three years ago Rochelle Floros was living her dream come true… then lost it all. On the worst day of her life, the last person she expected to be there for her was a rock star and tabloid favorite. Now, she’s trying to rebuild her life after the tragedy that destroyed her fairytale. Slowly, she found herself captivated by a sexy, bad boy drummer she had known for years.
Rochelle was caught between the grief that shrouded her heart and the charismatic man that made it race. What she didn’t know is if he was being sincere or toying with her heart. The Redemption is about finding the pulse of your soul in the most unlikely places and giving love a chance to grow.
Can what she wants really be what she needs? With his rhythm and her passion, can they make music together? Or will their harmony be lost forever?
He was everything she never wanted. Yet, she couldn’t stop thinking about him.
Soulful, amber eyes
A sex, drugs, and rock n’roll reputation
A body that beckoned for sin
Three years ago Rochelle Floros was living her dream come true… then lost it all. On the worst day of her life, the last person she expected to be there for her was a rock star and tabloid favorite. Now, she’s trying to rebuild her life after the tragedy that destroyed her fairytale. Slowly, she found herself captivated by a sexy, bad boy drummer she had known for years.
Rochelle was caught between the grief that shrouded her heart and the charismatic man that made it race. What she didn’t know is if he was being sincere or toying with her heart. The Redemption is about finding the pulse of your soul in the most unlikely places and giving love a chance to grow.
Can what she wants really be what she needs? With his rhythm and her passion, can they make music together? Or will their harmony be lost forever?
380 pages, Unknown Binding
First published October 28, 2014
573 people are currently reading
1790 people want to read
About the author
S.L. Scott
88 books5,085 followersNew York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author, S.L. Scott, writes character driven, heart-racing suspense, and swoony romances that will leave you glued to the page. With stories ranging from witty beach reads to heart wrenching and heart healing, her stories are highly regarded as emotional, relatable, and captivating.
Her books are more than escapes for the voracious readers of today. They are journeys of the heart that always come with a happily ever after reward at the end.
Website: www.slscottauthor.com or https://geni.us/slscott
Newsletter: https://geni.us/intheknow
Amazon Author Page: https://geni.us/SLSAm
Goodreads: https://geni.us/SLGR
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Facebook Reader Group: https://geni.us/SLScottBooks
Twitter: https://geni.us/SLTwitter
Youtube: https://geni.us/SLSYoutube
**Make sure to follow her here on Goodreads and Amazon.
Her books are more than escapes for the voracious readers of today. They are journeys of the heart that always come with a happily ever after reward at the end.
Website: www.slscottauthor.com or https://geni.us/slscott
Newsletter: https://geni.us/intheknow
Amazon Author Page: https://geni.us/SLSAm
Goodreads: https://geni.us/SLGR
Pinterest: https://geni.us/SLPin
Instagram: https://geni.us/IGSLS
Tiktok: https://geni.us/SLTikTok
Facebook: https://geni.us/SLSPage
Bookbub: https://geni.us/SLScottBB
Facebook Reader Group: https://geni.us/SLScottBooks
Twitter: https://geni.us/SLTwitter
Youtube: https://geni.us/SLSYoutube
**Make sure to follow her here on Goodreads and Amazon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
October 27, 2014
3 stars!
Earlier this year, I read and loved The Resistance: it was hot, the banter was awesome and because I was lucky enough to read it at a time where premise spoilers hadn’t been posted yet I was delightfully surprised by the twists the author presented. While I wasn’t expecting a replica of the first book, I did expect to see some qualities that I loved there to be present here. The author’s writing style is great and I LOVED the hero Dex, but sadly everything else tanked for me. My main complaint is the stubborn heroine Rochelle who constantly pushed Dex away and exhibited hot-and-cold behavior that gave me whiplash. I know this is the definition of good angst for some readers, but for me, it is called character stupidity because in my eyes, there was no basis for her to keep pushing the hero away. Overall, still a very decent read and though I didn’t love this one as much as I loved the first book, second chance romance lovers who enjoy boatloads of angst will find a winner with this book.
For those that haven’t read the first book, Rochelle is a side character who lost her beloved husband in a tragic accident, leaving her with their two young sons. As to be expected, she is heartbroken, devastated and lost, barely keeping it all together to be mother to her kids and manager for The Resistance.
Dex is an outwardly cocky bad boy but has a heart of gold and a deep soul. For years, he’s only loved one woman, the woman who was his best friend’s wife until he died in an accident. The depth of his feelings for Rochelle, the love he has for her boys, and his sincerity and seriousness with everything Rochelle-related really touched me. I was swooning hard.
Going into this book, I prepared myself for an appropriate amount of push-and-pull couple dynamics as to be expected with a second chance romance happening after a tragedy. I guess I just didn’t expect Rochelle to be THIS stubborn. Some of her actions really hurt Dex and she was a hypocrite for saying she knew the real him only to judge him so easily based off his previous bad boy stigma. I struggled to forgive her and wanted to weep every time Dex opened his heart up to her and she fought back.
“You’re convincing yourself that I’m the bad guy, that I don’t care and you know those are lies, lies you’re telling yourself to avoid anything that might actually be real.”
“You know, one day I hope you’ll see me for more than a coked up-drummer who used to sleep around.”
Ugh why Rochelle?! But I also want to be fair and say that perhaps the timing wasn’t exactly right when I picked up this book. You see, my last couple of reads all were loaded with angst grenades and stubborn heroines and my patience was practically nonexistent when I got to this book. I think if I had read this story at a time where I was more accepting of angst and said stubbornness, my rating would be higher.
The last 25% of the book read like music and Igrudgingly forgave Rochelle because that’s who Dex loved and I love Dex’s character enough to suck up my disdain for her hot and cold behavior.
The Redemption is the 2nd book following book 1 The Resistance. Both are interconnected standalones and can be read on their own but like I always advise, to maximize your reading experience and avoid plot spoilers, I suggest reading them in order.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Earlier this year, I read and loved The Resistance: it was hot, the banter was awesome and because I was lucky enough to read it at a time where premise spoilers hadn’t been posted yet I was delightfully surprised by the twists the author presented. While I wasn’t expecting a replica of the first book, I did expect to see some qualities that I loved there to be present here. The author’s writing style is great and I LOVED the hero Dex, but sadly everything else tanked for me. My main complaint is the stubborn heroine Rochelle who constantly pushed Dex away and exhibited hot-and-cold behavior that gave me whiplash. I know this is the definition of good angst for some readers, but for me, it is called character stupidity because in my eyes, there was no basis for her to keep pushing the hero away. Overall, still a very decent read and though I didn’t love this one as much as I loved the first book, second chance romance lovers who enjoy boatloads of angst will find a winner with this book.
For those that haven’t read the first book, Rochelle is a side character who lost her beloved husband in a tragic accident, leaving her with their two young sons. As to be expected, she is heartbroken, devastated and lost, barely keeping it all together to be mother to her kids and manager for The Resistance.
Dex is an outwardly cocky bad boy but has a heart of gold and a deep soul. For years, he’s only loved one woman, the woman who was his best friend’s wife until he died in an accident. The depth of his feelings for Rochelle, the love he has for her boys, and his sincerity and seriousness with everything Rochelle-related really touched me. I was swooning hard.
Going into this book, I prepared myself for an appropriate amount of push-and-pull couple dynamics as to be expected with a second chance romance happening after a tragedy. I guess I just didn’t expect Rochelle to be THIS stubborn. Some of her actions really hurt Dex and she was a hypocrite for saying she knew the real him only to judge him so easily based off his previous bad boy stigma. I struggled to forgive her and wanted to weep every time Dex opened his heart up to her and she fought back.
“You’re convincing yourself that I’m the bad guy, that I don’t care and you know those are lies, lies you’re telling yourself to avoid anything that might actually be real.”
“You know, one day I hope you’ll see me for more than a coked up-drummer who used to sleep around.”
Ugh why Rochelle?! But I also want to be fair and say that perhaps the timing wasn’t exactly right when I picked up this book. You see, my last couple of reads all were loaded with angst grenades and stubborn heroines and my patience was practically nonexistent when I got to this book. I think if I had read this story at a time where I was more accepting of angst and said stubbornness, my rating would be higher.
The last 25% of the book read like music and I
The Redemption is the 2nd book following book 1 The Resistance. Both are interconnected standalones and can be read on their own but like I always advise, to maximize your reading experience and avoid plot spoilers, I suggest reading them in order.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
November 1, 2014
Fall in love with falling in love again. SL Scott does it again, writing a love story that makes you believe that everyone deserves a chance at redemption and at love. Emotional, heartfelt, and captivating.
I want a Dex for myself!
I want a Dex for myself!
November 7, 2014
2 Stars
This book just did not work for me. I don't think I've ever been as frustrated or irritated by wishy washy, waffling back and forth, as I was with these two MC's. If my curse filled status updates are any indicator, I'd say extremely! I loved the Resistance, just goes to show an author can have a hit and miss!
This book just did not work for me. I don't think I've ever been as frustrated or irritated by wishy washy, waffling back and forth, as I was with these two MC's. If my curse filled status updates are any indicator, I'd say extremely! I loved the Resistance, just goes to show an author can have a hit and miss!
November 2, 2014
**ARC provided by author in exchange for a honest review**
**NOTE: This book is set in the same world as The Resistance (read my review here), however it can be read as a standalone. I would recommend reading The Resistance though. Because of Jack freaking Dalton**
The Redemption is like any other S.L. Scott book I’ve read. And I’m pretty sure I’ve read them all. This was angst-y, emotional, gut-wrenching, and downright delicious. The writing was flawless, as usual. I have way too many highlights of beautiful passages and quotes that left me breathless. This was probably the most challenging S.L. Scoot book I’ve read to date. I usually stay awake from books like this where the heroine is older with kids, but there’s no way I can miss an S.L Scott book. Especially a rocker S.L. Scott. Oh, and did I mention it has overlaps with characters and the plot from The Resistance?
”He left us all. I’ve tried to hold back, for your sake. To not require you to think about me, but I fucking miss him, every single day. I miss my friend. I know you loved him. So did I. He was the only one in my life I could always rely on. That void will never be filled, Rochelle. I’m not trying to fill his shoes. I’m not him. All I can be is me and hope it’s good enough.”
Rochelle was a very complicated woman. Women are supposed to be complicated, right? Well, Rochelle had issues that had me tearing my hair out. But, I couldn’t even hate her. I didn’t know what it was like to be in her shoes. She’s a single mom to two kids. She lost her soulmate in an airplane crash. And now, she’s falling for who might arguably be the worst guy for her to fall in love with. I don’t know what it’s like to be her. I don’t know what it’s like to have that kind of responsibility—that kind of weight—on my shoulders. And I hope I never have to find out. All that she’s been through made it hard to hate or blame her for her crazy emotions and back and forth that goes on throughout the course of the book. All I could do was hang on and hope that I came out whole (and sane) by the end. And you know what? It was COMPLETELY worth it.
“You’re inside of me, the blood that fills my veins, the aches that my heart feel, and every good decision I ever made. That’s what you mean to me. I can’t stay away from you and I don’t want to… You’re the melody I can’t capture and the notes I can’t hit. But I can’t fight your pull, always gravitating toward your world, to you.”
Dex Caggiano is equally complex. Known for his playboy ways, he’s been in love with her since the moment she asked him to leave a gig and come play the drums for their band. I can pinpoint the exact moment I fell in love with Dex (Chapter 5. His good night texts. You’ll know when you see it.). He has his baggage with his messy family and the guilt of being in love with his dead bandmate’s love and mother of their children. I swooned countless times for Dex. He has some of the best freaking lines in the book. The things he said completely made up for the times I wanted to shake Rochelle. I might even say that he matured even more than Rochelle.
“My feelings for you are real. But for you, I’ll be your Peter Pan and you can pretend to be Wendy and we’ll stay in Neverland until you’re ready to see that Neverland doesn’t have to live only in our imaginations.”
I think a lot of the conflict in this book are all plausible things. They fight their attraction to each other for a good chunk of the book. Rochelle would fight it because she didn’t think it was right, then Dex would fight it because he didn’t think he was good enough for Rochelle. Then all the other complications. Rochelle has two kids. She feels like she’s betraying Cory. Oh, and not to mention Dex is part of one of the hottest bands in this time. And that he used to be a playboy. And he has also has past demons to reconcile with. So, you see? It’s all very…complicated. Be prepared to be frustrated, to be emotional, to swoon, to fall in love (Dex playing with two little boys? *dies*), and to feel the butterflies. Hold on for the ride. I would say hold on to your panties, but there’s no point—Dex will melt them right off.
“You know how to make a girl swoon. And maybe on the days it gets rough, we can escape to Neverland again, even if just for a few hours.”
“I don’t need Neverland. Reality with you is better than any make believe world ever could be.”
“I’m giving you my heart, Dex.”
“You’ve had mine since the moment I laid eyes on you.”
See full review here http://www.romanceaddictbookblog.com/...
**NOTE: This book is set in the same world as The Resistance (read my review here), however it can be read as a standalone. I would recommend reading The Resistance though. Because of Jack freaking Dalton**
The Redemption is like any other S.L. Scott book I’ve read. And I’m pretty sure I’ve read them all. This was angst-y, emotional, gut-wrenching, and downright delicious. The writing was flawless, as usual. I have way too many highlights of beautiful passages and quotes that left me breathless. This was probably the most challenging S.L. Scoot book I’ve read to date. I usually stay awake from books like this where the heroine is older with kids, but there’s no way I can miss an S.L Scott book. Especially a rocker S.L. Scott. Oh, and did I mention it has overlaps with characters and the plot from The Resistance?
”He left us all. I’ve tried to hold back, for your sake. To not require you to think about me, but I fucking miss him, every single day. I miss my friend. I know you loved him. So did I. He was the only one in my life I could always rely on. That void will never be filled, Rochelle. I’m not trying to fill his shoes. I’m not him. All I can be is me and hope it’s good enough.”
Rochelle was a very complicated woman. Women are supposed to be complicated, right? Well, Rochelle had issues that had me tearing my hair out. But, I couldn’t even hate her. I didn’t know what it was like to be in her shoes. She’s a single mom to two kids. She lost her soulmate in an airplane crash. And now, she’s falling for who might arguably be the worst guy for her to fall in love with. I don’t know what it’s like to be her. I don’t know what it’s like to have that kind of responsibility—that kind of weight—on my shoulders. And I hope I never have to find out. All that she’s been through made it hard to hate or blame her for her crazy emotions and back and forth that goes on throughout the course of the book. All I could do was hang on and hope that I came out whole (and sane) by the end. And you know what? It was COMPLETELY worth it.
“You’re inside of me, the blood that fills my veins, the aches that my heart feel, and every good decision I ever made. That’s what you mean to me. I can’t stay away from you and I don’t want to… You’re the melody I can’t capture and the notes I can’t hit. But I can’t fight your pull, always gravitating toward your world, to you.”
Dex Caggiano is equally complex. Known for his playboy ways, he’s been in love with her since the moment she asked him to leave a gig and come play the drums for their band. I can pinpoint the exact moment I fell in love with Dex (Chapter 5. His good night texts. You’ll know when you see it.). He has his baggage with his messy family and the guilt of being in love with his dead bandmate’s love and mother of their children. I swooned countless times for Dex. He has some of the best freaking lines in the book. The things he said completely made up for the times I wanted to shake Rochelle. I might even say that he matured even more than Rochelle.
“My feelings for you are real. But for you, I’ll be your Peter Pan and you can pretend to be Wendy and we’ll stay in Neverland until you’re ready to see that Neverland doesn’t have to live only in our imaginations.”
I think a lot of the conflict in this book are all plausible things. They fight their attraction to each other for a good chunk of the book. Rochelle would fight it because she didn’t think it was right, then Dex would fight it because he didn’t think he was good enough for Rochelle. Then all the other complications. Rochelle has two kids. She feels like she’s betraying Cory. Oh, and not to mention Dex is part of one of the hottest bands in this time. And that he used to be a playboy. And he has also has past demons to reconcile with. So, you see? It’s all very…complicated. Be prepared to be frustrated, to be emotional, to swoon, to fall in love (Dex playing with two little boys? *dies*), and to feel the butterflies. Hold on for the ride. I would say hold on to your panties, but there’s no point—Dex will melt them right off.
“You know how to make a girl swoon. And maybe on the days it gets rough, we can escape to Neverland again, even if just for a few hours.”
“I don’t need Neverland. Reality with you is better than any make believe world ever could be.”
“I’m giving you my heart, Dex.”
“You’ve had mine since the moment I laid eyes on you.”
See full review here http://www.romanceaddictbookblog.com/...
December 31, 2014
4.5 Stars ☆☆☆☆☆
Oh I loved this story very much. The Redemption is a deep emotional read, the plot and characters were even more interesting than "The Resistance" and also pretty hot!
Rochelle Floros is the "widow" of Cory, the guitarist of "The Resistance" rock band. Coming from a very rich Greek American family (she's like the niece of Onasis), she left home when she was 17 and wanted to live free and away from the luxury. Than she met Cory and then The Resistance was founded. They lived together for 11 years and had 2 children together but Cory died in a plane accident the day his second son was born. He also had a ring bought for her to ask her to marry him. Devastated from Cory's death, Rochelle is trying to find strength for her kids.
Her heart is destroyed and she thinks she will never find happiness again.
Antonio Dexter Caggiano (Dex) is the 30 years old drummer and badboy of "The Resistance". He's famous also for being a playboy and for using drugs and for his parties. Dex comes from money too, but never felt loved, he escaped home too young wanting to do music. When he was 19 years old and was doing covers in bars with a band in LA...a cute little brunette approached him and asked him if he wanted to do rock and be in a real band who does its own songs. He was intrigued not only from this possibility but mainly by this pretty little thing with her sparkly personality. It was love at first sight for Dex, but Rochelle was in love with Cory. For 11 years Dex has loved her in silence and had given up the idea of a life with her but now that she's free again and in need of love and support maybe life gave him a chance to happiness.
I loved this story, I loved both H/h. The olny thing that I have to criticize is that after the half of the book there were a lot of back and forth between H and h and I think that was unnecessary. I mean they had plenty of time to develop their relationship and understand their feelings. So maybe some parts were unnecessary. But I loved this story and enjoyed it a lot!
I totally recommend it. This is a spin off of "The Resistance" but can totally be read as a stand alone.
Oh I loved this story very much. The Redemption is a deep emotional read, the plot and characters were even more interesting than "The Resistance" and also pretty hot!
Rochelle Floros is the "widow" of Cory, the guitarist of "The Resistance" rock band. Coming from a very rich Greek American family (she's like the niece of Onasis), she left home when she was 17 and wanted to live free and away from the luxury. Than she met Cory and then The Resistance was founded. They lived together for 11 years and had 2 children together but Cory died in a plane accident the day his second son was born. He also had a ring bought for her to ask her to marry him. Devastated from Cory's death, Rochelle is trying to find strength for her kids.
Her heart is destroyed and she thinks she will never find happiness again.
Antonio Dexter Caggiano (Dex) is the 30 years old drummer and badboy of "The Resistance". He's famous also for being a playboy and for using drugs and for his parties. Dex comes from money too, but never felt loved, he escaped home too young wanting to do music. When he was 19 years old and was doing covers in bars with a band in LA...a cute little brunette approached him and asked him if he wanted to do rock and be in a real band who does its own songs. He was intrigued not only from this possibility but mainly by this pretty little thing with her sparkly personality. It was love at first sight for Dex, but Rochelle was in love with Cory. For 11 years Dex has loved her in silence and had given up the idea of a life with her but now that she's free again and in need of love and support maybe life gave him a chance to happiness.
I loved this story, I loved both H/h. The olny thing that I have to criticize is that after the half of the book there were a lot of back and forth between H and h and I think that was unnecessary. I mean they had plenty of time to develop their relationship and understand their feelings. So maybe some parts were unnecessary. But I loved this story and enjoyed it a lot!
I totally recommend it. This is a spin off of "The Resistance" but can totally be read as a stand alone.
November 4, 2014
3.5 Stars
The heart holds not only the power over our souls but the key to it.
Antonio Dexter Caggiano a.k.a Dex. Bad boy rock star drummer for The Resistance, is the epitome of all that is a "Rock Star." He's got the reputation- sex symbol, drug user, womanizer and hard core partier. Dex is an enigma, one that he uses to his advantage. He has lots of issues, most stemming from his childhood and family issues. But the major one... is being in love with his dead best friend's, girl. He's been in love with Rochelle Floros since she was nineteen years old. Since the day she brought him into the band.
She’s the sun when it sets and my moon when it rises. My day begins and ends with her on my mind” - Dex
Rochelle Floros, is a heartbroken and devastated widower. The mother to two young boys, who tragically lost her partner in a plane crash. Three years later and Rochelle is still grieving, while attempting to continue managing the band, The Resistance.
Antonio Dexter Caggiano sees right through the facade I put on for everyone else
In small ways Dex and Rochelle's find comfort in each other and soon turns into something more than friendship. Rochelle is afraid to move on; afraid to bring a man into her family, afraid to love again. She's petrified of what her feelings for Dex will mean. The changes it will bring about and what that would mean for her memory of Cory. Would she be betraying him, their family, the band, but mostly, would she be betraying herself.
What I loved about Dex was that he was so patient and charming. Absolutely understanding of Rochelle and her situation.
“I make very few promises in life, but this one I can make to you. Rochelle Floros, I’m coming for you. It’s our time, so get ready for me.”
S.L. Scott encompassed the maturity of the characters by setting the scenes around real life issues- children, in-laws, work relationships, drugs abuse, rehabilitation- it was perfectly portrayed and handled with well thought out scenes.
"He left us all. I’ve tried to hold back, for your sake. To not require you to think about me, but I fucking miss him, every single day. I miss my friend. I know you loved him. So did I. He was the only one in my life I could always rely on. That void will never be filled, Rochelle. I’m not trying to fill his shoes. I’m not him. All I can be is me and hope it’s good enough.”
Now, I will say I was routing for Dex from the start of the book. Dex turned his life around - being a drug user and going through rehab- all to stay in the band and redeem himself from his old life. I kept getting angry and seriously annoyed with Rochelle. All of her topsy turvy thoughts and the way she treated Dex. Like come on!!!! She pissed me the eff!!! off. Being the band manager and also a close friend of Dex's, along with his best friend's better half, the judgemental bull was a big ole STOP!! sign for me,
As their dance around each other slowly escalates into something "more," Rochelle finally starts to see Dex for the kind hearted and changed person he is, but it's a little too late. Angry and fed up of being judged for his past errors. Dex devises a rather interesting plan for Rochelle to catch him in a most compromising position. To prove t her he can revert to his old ways. And the plan works. All because Dex got fed up of her perversity towards him. When Rochelle discovers him, she's now heartbroken.
*ARC provided by InkSlinger PR on behalf of the author for an honest review*
The heart holds not only the power over our souls but the key to it.
Antonio Dexter Caggiano a.k.a Dex. Bad boy rock star drummer for The Resistance, is the epitome of all that is a "Rock Star." He's got the reputation- sex symbol, drug user, womanizer and hard core partier. Dex is an enigma, one that he uses to his advantage. He has lots of issues, most stemming from his childhood and family issues. But the major one... is being in love with his dead best friend's, girl. He's been in love with Rochelle Floros since she was nineteen years old. Since the day she brought him into the band.
She’s the sun when it sets and my moon when it rises. My day begins and ends with her on my mind” - Dex
Rochelle Floros, is a heartbroken and devastated widower. The mother to two young boys, who tragically lost her partner in a plane crash. Three years later and Rochelle is still grieving, while attempting to continue managing the band, The Resistance.
Antonio Dexter Caggiano sees right through the facade I put on for everyone else
In small ways Dex and Rochelle's find comfort in each other and soon turns into something more than friendship. Rochelle is afraid to move on; afraid to bring a man into her family, afraid to love again. She's petrified of what her feelings for Dex will mean. The changes it will bring about and what that would mean for her memory of Cory. Would she be betraying him, their family, the band, but mostly, would she be betraying herself.
What I loved about Dex was that he was so patient and charming. Absolutely understanding of Rochelle and her situation.
“I make very few promises in life, but this one I can make to you. Rochelle Floros, I’m coming for you. It’s our time, so get ready for me.”
S.L. Scott encompassed the maturity of the characters by setting the scenes around real life issues- children, in-laws, work relationships, drugs abuse, rehabilitation- it was perfectly portrayed and handled with well thought out scenes.
"He left us all. I’ve tried to hold back, for your sake. To not require you to think about me, but I fucking miss him, every single day. I miss my friend. I know you loved him. So did I. He was the only one in my life I could always rely on. That void will never be filled, Rochelle. I’m not trying to fill his shoes. I’m not him. All I can be is me and hope it’s good enough.”
Now, I will say I was routing for Dex from the start of the book. Dex turned his life around - being a drug user and going through rehab- all to stay in the band and redeem himself from his old life. I kept getting angry and seriously annoyed with Rochelle. All of her topsy turvy thoughts and the way she treated Dex. Like come on!!!! She pissed me the eff!!! off. Being the band manager and also a close friend of Dex's, along with his best friend's better half, the judgemental bull was a big ole STOP!! sign for me,
As their dance around each other slowly escalates into something "more," Rochelle finally starts to see Dex for the kind hearted and changed person he is, but it's a little too late. Angry and fed up of being judged for his past errors. Dex devises a rather interesting plan for Rochelle to catch him in a most compromising position. To prove t her he can revert to his old ways. And the plan works. All because Dex got fed up of her perversity towards him. When Rochelle discovers him, she's now heartbroken.
*ARC provided by InkSlinger PR on behalf of the author for an honest review*
November 5, 2014
A man with demons who’s part showman part manwhore.
A woman whose future ended with her soulmate’s death.
Two people hiding how they truly feel – one with alcohol, drugs, and women and the other with a smile on her face and a strong drive to act like everything is fine.
Two people, according to all those around them, who shouldn’t be together because there’s too much history, too much of a divide between them.
One doesn’t feel good enough for the other, being held accountable is not something he’s used to, and despite their pull towards one another, they’re constantly running from each other because the pressure is too much...the memories are too much.
Can the bad boy drummer be redeemed or will Dex and Rochelle’s personal obstacles be too much for them to overcome?
Dex has always been the quintessential bad boy rocker but beneath the exterior is a man who’s been in love with a woman since their first meeting; a woman who’s been off limits and to suppress those feelings as well as the baggage he carries due to his family, he’s worked and partied hard, damaging his body as well as his reputation. But there’s more to Dex that his rocker ways, and S.L. Scott illustrates Dex’s layers through his interactions with Rochelle and her boys as well as the messages he writes Rochelle. We see the real Dex through Rochelle’s eyes – the man behind the drugs, booze, girls, and drums - the man who would willingly give Rochelle and her children the world if he could…if Rochelle would allow it. All Dex needs is a chance to show Rochelle that he’s good enough to be with her…that he can chase his demons and win, but first, he has to believe it himself, but therein lies the problem and explains a lot of the push and pull that happens throughout the story. He doesn’t feel good enough; he’s definitely a work in progress, and in order for him and everyone else to feel like he and Rochelle are a good idea, he needs to work on himself and get his shit together before he’ll ever feel free to be with the woman he loves.
Rochelle has things to fight as well, but her struggle is to stop living in the past and thinking about what could have been. Cory’s death rocks her to the core and even though logically she understands there’s no future with him, how can she move on and have a relationship with another man, especially one of Cory’s best friends? That idea alone torments her on a consistent basis and has her sending Dex mixed messages on a continual basis. I can’t blame Rochelle for being hesitant about getting into her feelings for Dex. She has a lot on her plate, and she also has two small children to worry about as well as her memories of her life with Cory. Do her two steps forward, one step back actions frustrate me? Absolutely, but it makes sense after everything she’s endured and what she and Dex are up against in trying to be a couple in the eyes of their friends/family and the public.
There’s nothing easy about Dex and Rochelle’s relationship. At times, it seems like they’ll never be on the same page. I was emotionally spent a number of times reading their story because I wanted all the pieces to fall into place, and they just wouldn’t budge, which left both Dex and Rochelle tied up in knots and pulling back to regroup. Dex and Rochelle are up against complicated issues both personally and as a couple, and their struggles to get through them and come out on the other end unscathed are amazingly illustrated through S.L. Scott’s writing. She captures both the complexity of Dex and Rochelle’s feelings and the upheaval they are emotionally going through and shows readers that nothing can ever work out perfectly; there will always be obstacles and traumatizing situations, but S.L. also proves that even though redemption is never easy, it’s always worth it.
If readers have never read any of S.L. Scott’s works, they are definitely missing out – she has the ability to create multifaceted characters who draw readers into their story and don’t let them go until they’ve experienced the characters’ feelings and understand why they are the way that they are and why the choices made may not always make sense, but at that time, it was the only decision to make. S.L. is definitely one of my go to authors!
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
5 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
A woman whose future ended with her soulmate’s death.
Two people hiding how they truly feel – one with alcohol, drugs, and women and the other with a smile on her face and a strong drive to act like everything is fine.
Two people, according to all those around them, who shouldn’t be together because there’s too much history, too much of a divide between them.
One doesn’t feel good enough for the other, being held accountable is not something he’s used to, and despite their pull towards one another, they’re constantly running from each other because the pressure is too much...the memories are too much.
Can the bad boy drummer be redeemed or will Dex and Rochelle’s personal obstacles be too much for them to overcome?
Dex has always been the quintessential bad boy rocker but beneath the exterior is a man who’s been in love with a woman since their first meeting; a woman who’s been off limits and to suppress those feelings as well as the baggage he carries due to his family, he’s worked and partied hard, damaging his body as well as his reputation. But there’s more to Dex that his rocker ways, and S.L. Scott illustrates Dex’s layers through his interactions with Rochelle and her boys as well as the messages he writes Rochelle. We see the real Dex through Rochelle’s eyes – the man behind the drugs, booze, girls, and drums - the man who would willingly give Rochelle and her children the world if he could…if Rochelle would allow it. All Dex needs is a chance to show Rochelle that he’s good enough to be with her…that he can chase his demons and win, but first, he has to believe it himself, but therein lies the problem and explains a lot of the push and pull that happens throughout the story. He doesn’t feel good enough; he’s definitely a work in progress, and in order for him and everyone else to feel like he and Rochelle are a good idea, he needs to work on himself and get his shit together before he’ll ever feel free to be with the woman he loves.
Rochelle has things to fight as well, but her struggle is to stop living in the past and thinking about what could have been. Cory’s death rocks her to the core and even though logically she understands there’s no future with him, how can she move on and have a relationship with another man, especially one of Cory’s best friends? That idea alone torments her on a consistent basis and has her sending Dex mixed messages on a continual basis. I can’t blame Rochelle for being hesitant about getting into her feelings for Dex. She has a lot on her plate, and she also has two small children to worry about as well as her memories of her life with Cory. Do her two steps forward, one step back actions frustrate me? Absolutely, but it makes sense after everything she’s endured and what she and Dex are up against in trying to be a couple in the eyes of their friends/family and the public.
There’s nothing easy about Dex and Rochelle’s relationship. At times, it seems like they’ll never be on the same page. I was emotionally spent a number of times reading their story because I wanted all the pieces to fall into place, and they just wouldn’t budge, which left both Dex and Rochelle tied up in knots and pulling back to regroup. Dex and Rochelle are up against complicated issues both personally and as a couple, and their struggles to get through them and come out on the other end unscathed are amazingly illustrated through S.L. Scott’s writing. She captures both the complexity of Dex and Rochelle’s feelings and the upheaval they are emotionally going through and shows readers that nothing can ever work out perfectly; there will always be obstacles and traumatizing situations, but S.L. also proves that even though redemption is never easy, it’s always worth it.
If readers have never read any of S.L. Scott’s works, they are definitely missing out – she has the ability to create multifaceted characters who draw readers into their story and don’t let them go until they’ve experienced the characters’ feelings and understand why they are the way that they are and why the choices made may not always make sense, but at that time, it was the only decision to make. S.L. is definitely one of my go to authors!
A complimentary copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
5 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
January 30, 2015
The Resistance (the first in the series) was a runaway hit for S.L Scott in 2014, and one of my
favourite reads on the year. So when she released a stand-alone follow-up, I was desperate to get my grubby fingers on it!
The Redemption tells the story of Rochelle Floros, a widow whose husband—Cory—was the lead guitarist in the rock group he Resistance. But with Cory gone, and two little boys to look after, Rochelle is adrift. She’s afraid to open her heart, to love again, but at the same time she is a sensual woman who aches for more.
Dex Caggiano is the band’s drummer, with a ‘bad boy’ rep, and for years he’s admired Rochelle from afar. But after a drunken encounter with her at his LA house, the chemistry between them starts to explode. What follows is a sex-scene that ends like no other I’ve read—and honestly you have to read it yourself to know why my eyes were bulging by the end. And this leads to a lot of embarrassment, and to Rochelle fleeing from Dex’s bedroom, leaving both of them shocked and raw.
After a downward spiral that leads to weeks in a Rehab Centre, the two of them have a lot of issues to work through. Obviously the biggest—her dead husband Cory—is a doozy, and messes them both up more than once. As an angst-lover I loved the push and pull between the two of them, the will-they-won’t-they chapters that made me hold my breath as I read them. S.L. Scott truly takes us though a journey along with her characters, as we see them trying to fight their demons and learning to stand on their own two feet. Without giving away the ending, by the time you get there it feels like you’ve earned it, and been fighting for it all the way through.
As with all S.L. Scott books this one kept my finger glued to the ‘next page’ button of my kindle, and reading long past my bedtime. But I don’t regret it one little bit.
November 4, 2014
I loved The Resistance and couldn’t wait to read The Redemption! This book can absolutely be read as a standalone; it follows the story of Rochelle and Dex, the drummer for the band The Resistance. This is a very emotional story – Rochelle has lost her soulmate Cory and she is still grieving for him and dealing with raising her two sons alone.
Dex is troubled and can’t figure out how to get his life back on track. He is battling addictions and being in the public eye as well as his difficult family. But he loves Rochelle and can’t stay away from her. These two have a tumultuous and passionate relationship and can’t seem to stop hurting each other, even if unintentionally.
This book is about healing, acceptance and learning to move on even in the face of great pain and hurt. It’s a great love story and has some very real, very honest characters who are doing the best they can with some heartbreaking circumstances. I really loved both Rochelle and Dex and loved this sexy and emotional story!
(*ARC provided by the author in return for an honest review)
Dex is troubled and can’t figure out how to get his life back on track. He is battling addictions and being in the public eye as well as his difficult family. But he loves Rochelle and can’t stay away from her. These two have a tumultuous and passionate relationship and can’t seem to stop hurting each other, even if unintentionally.
This book is about healing, acceptance and learning to move on even in the face of great pain and hurt. It’s a great love story and has some very real, very honest characters who are doing the best they can with some heartbreaking circumstances. I really loved both Rochelle and Dex and loved this sexy and emotional story!
(*ARC provided by the author in return for an honest review)
October 28, 2014
This is everything a book should be!
I laughed, I cried, I cheered, and I hid my face in The Redemption! The feels are so there - for both Ro and for Dex. I loved that the author didn't write the predictable "follow-up" to The Resistance. She really tells us an original story that is true to these characters, something fresh and unpredictable.
I love this one! Read it!
I laughed, I cried, I cheered, and I hid my face in The Redemption! The feels are so there - for both Ro and for Dex. I loved that the author didn't write the predictable "follow-up" to The Resistance. She really tells us an original story that is true to these characters, something fresh and unpredictable.
I love this one! Read it!
November 16, 2014
We are The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club, to know more about this book, go to the post in our website:
The Redemption by S.L. Scott
If you are interested, you can visit our website:
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club's Review:
Rate: 4 stars
Review:
The Redemption might catch your attention because of The Resistance. Rock stars are one of my weakness and I tend to read all books with them in it, but The Redemption explores more than the relationship between a rock star and a girl. It's about losing a person you love and try to survive after it while giving love a second chance.
I haven't had the chance to read The Resistance, another novel that is related to The Redemption, and that's probably why, when I started the book, I felt like I was missing something, like I didn't quite fully understand what it means to be a part of The Resistance. Despite this, after I kept reading the first few chapters, I understood what it truly meant to be part of this music group.
The author not only focuses on what it means to lose someone as important as the love of your life, the father of your kids, but gives us an insight of Rochelle's grieving and healing time. However, this story is not only about Rochelle, but about Dex, The Resistance's guitarist who has always been in love with his best friend's woman. He's the type of guy you expert no compromise and someone you would not expect to have a relationship with. He's a womanizer, he used to use drugs and he's some demons to battle that makes him do spontaneous and crazy things.
The author uses Rochelle's loss and Dex's story to bring these two together. They heal one another and their relationship is definitely not a constant one. You don't know what it's going to happen next between these two and that's how two lost people like them acts and definitely it felt more real than any other relationship I've read about.
S.L. Scott also had the ability to write the story in order to express all the emotions the characters were feeling at each chapter. And the reader is part of the story, because he or she is capable to feel it. The desperation, the anger, the loss, the frustration... all those feelings the characters are feeling throughout the story.
Meeting Rochelle and Dex is definitely worth your time. It might not be an easy path and the read might held lost of emotions, but is definitely a book you need to read. And I just hope there are more The Resistance novels coming.
About The Characters:
Since The Redemption is also related to music and what music means to the characters, I couldn't stop thinking about one song and relating them with each mean character.
For Dex: Jessie's Girl by Rick Springfield
For Rochelle: Can't Stop This Feeling by REO Speedwagon
The Redemption by S.L. Scott
If you are interested, you can visit our website:
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club
The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club's Review:
Rate: 4 stars
Review:
The Redemption might catch your attention because of The Resistance. Rock stars are one of my weakness and I tend to read all books with them in it, but The Redemption explores more than the relationship between a rock star and a girl. It's about losing a person you love and try to survive after it while giving love a second chance.
I haven't had the chance to read The Resistance, another novel that is related to The Redemption, and that's probably why, when I started the book, I felt like I was missing something, like I didn't quite fully understand what it means to be a part of The Resistance. Despite this, after I kept reading the first few chapters, I understood what it truly meant to be part of this music group.
The author not only focuses on what it means to lose someone as important as the love of your life, the father of your kids, but gives us an insight of Rochelle's grieving and healing time. However, this story is not only about Rochelle, but about Dex, The Resistance's guitarist who has always been in love with his best friend's woman. He's the type of guy you expert no compromise and someone you would not expect to have a relationship with. He's a womanizer, he used to use drugs and he's some demons to battle that makes him do spontaneous and crazy things.
The author uses Rochelle's loss and Dex's story to bring these two together. They heal one another and their relationship is definitely not a constant one. You don't know what it's going to happen next between these two and that's how two lost people like them acts and definitely it felt more real than any other relationship I've read about.
S.L. Scott also had the ability to write the story in order to express all the emotions the characters were feeling at each chapter. And the reader is part of the story, because he or she is capable to feel it. The desperation, the anger, the loss, the frustration... all those feelings the characters are feeling throughout the story.
Meeting Rochelle and Dex is definitely worth your time. It might not be an easy path and the read might held lost of emotions, but is definitely a book you need to read. And I just hope there are more The Resistance novels coming.
About The Characters:
Since The Redemption is also related to music and what music means to the characters, I couldn't stop thinking about one song and relating them with each mean character.
For Dex: Jessie's Girl by Rick Springfield
For Rochelle: Can't Stop This Feeling by REO Speedwagon
October 22, 2014
5 Heartfelt stars!
OMG this book!
The Redemption was such a deep and emotional read, loved it!
Rochelle and Dex both have been deeply affected by the loss of the much loved Cory.
Three years on they are still feeling the loss and struggling to come to terms that Cory isn't with them anymore =(
It was heartbreaking seeing Rochelle and Dex fight the strong attraction they felt for each other as memories of Cory would leave them feeling guilty and unsure if they could get past these emotions.
This story will touch your hearts, I found myself crying one minute then laughing and swooning the next.
I have SO many favourite scene's, I don't want to spoil by revealing the storyline but one scene that will stay with me for a long time was between Johnny and Rochelle. Oh the tears I shed, I'm tearing up now as I write this review *wipes tears*
Seeing Rochelle and Dex work through their feelings was hard at times, I found myself wishing I could reach into my kindle and knock some sense into them.
The journey getting to their HEA isn't easy but you know in your heart they are meant to be together.
The epilogue was perfect, I was crying happy tears =)
S.L. Scott is an amazing writer, she knows how to bring her characters to life, you can't help but fall in love with them while taking this journey.
I highly recommend The Redemption, you too will be touched by Rochelle's and Dex's love story.
I want to thank S.L. Scott for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
OMG this book!
The Redemption was such a deep and emotional read, loved it!
Rochelle and Dex both have been deeply affected by the loss of the much loved Cory.
Three years on they are still feeling the loss and struggling to come to terms that Cory isn't with them anymore =(
It was heartbreaking seeing Rochelle and Dex fight the strong attraction they felt for each other as memories of Cory would leave them feeling guilty and unsure if they could get past these emotions.
This story will touch your hearts, I found myself crying one minute then laughing and swooning the next.
I have SO many favourite scene's, I don't want to spoil by revealing the storyline but one scene that will stay with me for a long time was between Johnny and Rochelle. Oh the tears I shed, I'm tearing up now as I write this review *wipes tears*
Seeing Rochelle and Dex work through their feelings was hard at times, I found myself wishing I could reach into my kindle and knock some sense into them.
The journey getting to their HEA isn't easy but you know in your heart they are meant to be together.
The epilogue was perfect, I was crying happy tears =)
S.L. Scott is an amazing writer, she knows how to bring her characters to life, you can't help but fall in love with them while taking this journey.
I highly recommend The Redemption, you too will be touched by Rochelle's and Dex's love story.
I want to thank S.L. Scott for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
April 8, 2018
Wow! Dex and Rochelle had a very emotional journey to find their way to each other. Another great book in this series.
Continuing my binge with the next in the series, The Revolution.
Full review to follow
Continuing my binge with the next in the series, The Revolution.
Full review to follow
May 21, 2020
This was such a lovely and emotional story to read and so romantic at times, I am happy that Rochelle got the happiness she so deserves with Dex after all the heartache and trauma she went through after losing Cory.
September 26, 2018
3.5 stars.
July 27, 2024
3,5/5
November 3, 2014
SL Scott's second installment in The Resistance rock star romance series, The Redemption follows Rochelle Floros and Dex Caggiano as they explore their growing attraction after the death of Resistance band member, Cory Dean. Rochelle, the fiancee and mother of Cory's two children, and Dex, recovering addict bandmate and Cory's best friend, may have known each other for years, but their self-imposed guilt and inability to accept what they each actually deserve have them keeping the other at arms length.
I really loved the story line in this book. It feels a little taboo for the "widow" and the best friend of the deceased to succumb to their attraction. Throw in a backdrop of fame and superstardom, and you have not just the guilt and internal conflict to contend with, but the characters have tabloid fodder and the media-spun opinion of any potential relationship on top of it. It works. But, for me, the story felt a little disconnected at first. I was missing something from the build, the attraction. I heard, more than I felt, the attraction between Rochelle and Dex. I wanted to feel more of that sexual tension and that draw.
Rochelle and Dex just work. Well, theoretically, they work. Both come from very different backgrounds, Rochelle from the east coast, Dex from Beverly Hills. Both haunted by tragic pasts, Dex's struggle with addiction, Rochelle with the tragic death of her fiance. But somehow, they both just work. At this point in their lives they just want easy... simplicity. They want the little things in life, to be happy, to not be alone. But despite the fact that I, as the reader, know they work, they're rarely on the same page.
The back and forth was a little... much. I love a story with angst, don't get me wrong. I love a slow build, I love sexual tension, and I love when characters can never seem to get it right... Until they do. There was no shortage of uncertainty and instability in this story. I just felt like the back and forth, the push and pull between Dex and Rochelle was a little confusing. One minute they're fighting, the next they're agreeing to take it slow, the next they're trying to be just friends, then they're on a date, then they don't speak again for months... I thought maybe I overlooked some details at certain points. I'd ask myself "when did they decide they just wanted to be friends? They were just kissing...." It was just a little yo-yo like, and I got lost a bit. I could never quite figure out where they stood because as soon as I thought I knew, the chapter break would find them someplace totally different from where I thought they were.
I really loved this story line, there were just so many things that drove me a little crazy about it. I loved Rochelle, loved Dex, but they crossed the line from being confused and restrained to just being ridiculous. There's a point when you just decide despite how much you want two people to be together, it's just not going to work. These two passed that point for me. I need the angst, I need to conflict, I love the turmoil. But this crossed over from angsty to... too much. Surrounded by so much death and loss, these characters should have decided, at some point, that time was something they didn't want to waste anymore. But more times than I could count, they walked away from the other and claimed they needed time, needed space, needed to figure things out. It turned into something I just lost patience with. It became angst for the sake of angst rather than being a believable part of the story.
With that said, I really did like this story, these characters, the plot. I love this series and I look forward to more. I truly enjoy Scott's writing as well... she has a beautiful way with words and it's easy to get lost in her stories. For me, it was just about balance and, unfortunately, the scales tipped in one direction a little more than I would have liked. But readers will love this story, without a doubt. Dex and Rochelle are magnetic together... they were just facing the wrong way for much too long.
I really loved the story line in this book. It feels a little taboo for the "widow" and the best friend of the deceased to succumb to their attraction. Throw in a backdrop of fame and superstardom, and you have not just the guilt and internal conflict to contend with, but the characters have tabloid fodder and the media-spun opinion of any potential relationship on top of it. It works. But, for me, the story felt a little disconnected at first. I was missing something from the build, the attraction. I heard, more than I felt, the attraction between Rochelle and Dex. I wanted to feel more of that sexual tension and that draw.
Rochelle and Dex just work. Well, theoretically, they work. Both come from very different backgrounds, Rochelle from the east coast, Dex from Beverly Hills. Both haunted by tragic pasts, Dex's struggle with addiction, Rochelle with the tragic death of her fiance. But somehow, they both just work. At this point in their lives they just want easy... simplicity. They want the little things in life, to be happy, to not be alone. But despite the fact that I, as the reader, know they work, they're rarely on the same page.
The back and forth was a little... much. I love a story with angst, don't get me wrong. I love a slow build, I love sexual tension, and I love when characters can never seem to get it right... Until they do. There was no shortage of uncertainty and instability in this story. I just felt like the back and forth, the push and pull between Dex and Rochelle was a little confusing. One minute they're fighting, the next they're agreeing to take it slow, the next they're trying to be just friends, then they're on a date, then they don't speak again for months... I thought maybe I overlooked some details at certain points. I'd ask myself "when did they decide they just wanted to be friends? They were just kissing...." It was just a little yo-yo like, and I got lost a bit. I could never quite figure out where they stood because as soon as I thought I knew, the chapter break would find them someplace totally different from where I thought they were.
I really loved this story line, there were just so many things that drove me a little crazy about it. I loved Rochelle, loved Dex, but they crossed the line from being confused and restrained to just being ridiculous. There's a point when you just decide despite how much you want two people to be together, it's just not going to work. These two passed that point for me. I need the angst, I need to conflict, I love the turmoil. But this crossed over from angsty to... too much. Surrounded by so much death and loss, these characters should have decided, at some point, that time was something they didn't want to waste anymore. But more times than I could count, they walked away from the other and claimed they needed time, needed space, needed to figure things out. It turned into something I just lost patience with. It became angst for the sake of angst rather than being a believable part of the story.
With that said, I really did like this story, these characters, the plot. I love this series and I look forward to more. I truly enjoy Scott's writing as well... she has a beautiful way with words and it's easy to get lost in her stories. For me, it was just about balance and, unfortunately, the scales tipped in one direction a little more than I would have liked. But readers will love this story, without a doubt. Dex and Rochelle are magnetic together... they were just facing the wrong way for much too long.
April 9, 2015
RATING: 3.75
Having read both THE RESISTANCE and THE REDEMPTION, I personally think that this book is the better of the two. But not by too much. Also, I know that S. L. Scott says that you can read either book as a standalone, I think that you should read THE RESISTANCE first because it gave me a small bit of character basis for the lead protagonist, Dex. Plus there are things that happen in the first book that carryover, in terms of after effects, into the second book.
Let me start of by saying that this was a very dramatic read. And sometimes, it fell on the side of too dramatic. We follow Dex and Rochelle and their dealings with the aftermath of the death of a crucial person in their lives. Dex is dealing with the aftermath of some bad decisions, while Rochelle is trying to pick up the pieces from her shattered life. This book shows how they come together to not only heal, but to grow.
I think the book has some great bones. The concept was fantastic, the plot premise and the characters all had great structure. The thing that fell a bit short for me was the execution. And not all at once. There were just pockets of disappointment throughout the book. But I want to talk about what I loved.
I've always been a fan of life after tragedy. Picking up the pieces and moving on because you're still alive, despite someone you love dying. Heidi McLaughlin is a HUGE proponent of that, and this book carries similar elements of McLaughlin's Beaumont series. Rochelle, of course, is healing and trying to do the best that she can with the hand she was dealt and to be honest, I commend Scott for showing us that. I think that it was a great portrayal of vulnerability and imperfection. What Rochelle's character lacked, for me, was consistency. I felt that at times, she would be doing one thing and then she's flip the switch and decide to do something else, mainly when it came to Dex. It gave me whiplash!
Now, don't get me wrong, Dex did the same thing -- MANY TIMES. And I think this is where the disappointment kept seeping in. The inconsistency of both characters throughout this book kept angering me more than I wanted it to. There was a moment when I thought everything came to a head for both characters, probably about 60% (ish) through the book and that wasn't the case. I just felt like the flip flopping happened at awkward times throughout the plot and sometimes one too many times.
The characters were definitely likable, which is important because this is a character-driven book. I can honestly say that I cared about what happened to ALL of the characters, which is also another reason why you should read THE RESISTANCE first. You get to the know the characters sooner and you can begin forming opinions. Granted, those opinions will most likely change in this book, but I think the experience of going through that change is necessary to getting full enjoyment.
The secondary characters were fantastic too. They really aided in the development of Dex and Rochelle, but they also aided in the progression of the plot. During the times when Dex or Rochelle became too much for me to handle, Scott would throw in a nice brief interaction with a secondary character. I liked getting to know them a bit more.
The emotional aspect of this book is very strong and, quite frankly, one of my favorite things about this read. You will feel things. From anger to frustration to sadness to happiness. There is every type of feel throughout this read. And I think Scott did a pretty good job.
Overall, I did enjoy this read. I can't necessarily say it was the best book I've read or that it was extremely memorable, but I did like what it did for me. As a reader. It was an enjoyable reading adventure that gave me a nice set of characters that told a good story. The inconsistencies of the characters really weighed down on my experience, but I would recommend this read, if you're looking for something new and not too heavy!
Having read both THE RESISTANCE and THE REDEMPTION, I personally think that this book is the better of the two. But not by too much. Also, I know that S. L. Scott says that you can read either book as a standalone, I think that you should read THE RESISTANCE first because it gave me a small bit of character basis for the lead protagonist, Dex. Plus there are things that happen in the first book that carryover, in terms of after effects, into the second book.
Let me start of by saying that this was a very dramatic read. And sometimes, it fell on the side of too dramatic. We follow Dex and Rochelle and their dealings with the aftermath of the death of a crucial person in their lives. Dex is dealing with the aftermath of some bad decisions, while Rochelle is trying to pick up the pieces from her shattered life. This book shows how they come together to not only heal, but to grow.
I think the book has some great bones. The concept was fantastic, the plot premise and the characters all had great structure. The thing that fell a bit short for me was the execution. And not all at once. There were just pockets of disappointment throughout the book. But I want to talk about what I loved.
I've always been a fan of life after tragedy. Picking up the pieces and moving on because you're still alive, despite someone you love dying. Heidi McLaughlin is a HUGE proponent of that, and this book carries similar elements of McLaughlin's Beaumont series. Rochelle, of course, is healing and trying to do the best that she can with the hand she was dealt and to be honest, I commend Scott for showing us that. I think that it was a great portrayal of vulnerability and imperfection. What Rochelle's character lacked, for me, was consistency. I felt that at times, she would be doing one thing and then she's flip the switch and decide to do something else, mainly when it came to Dex. It gave me whiplash!
Now, don't get me wrong, Dex did the same thing -- MANY TIMES. And I think this is where the disappointment kept seeping in. The inconsistency of both characters throughout this book kept angering me more than I wanted it to. There was a moment when I thought everything came to a head for both characters, probably about 60% (ish) through the book and that wasn't the case. I just felt like the flip flopping happened at awkward times throughout the plot and sometimes one too many times.
The characters were definitely likable, which is important because this is a character-driven book. I can honestly say that I cared about what happened to ALL of the characters, which is also another reason why you should read THE RESISTANCE first. You get to the know the characters sooner and you can begin forming opinions. Granted, those opinions will most likely change in this book, but I think the experience of going through that change is necessary to getting full enjoyment.
The secondary characters were fantastic too. They really aided in the development of Dex and Rochelle, but they also aided in the progression of the plot. During the times when Dex or Rochelle became too much for me to handle, Scott would throw in a nice brief interaction with a secondary character. I liked getting to know them a bit more.
The emotional aspect of this book is very strong and, quite frankly, one of my favorite things about this read. You will feel things. From anger to frustration to sadness to happiness. There is every type of feel throughout this read. And I think Scott did a pretty good job.
Overall, I did enjoy this read. I can't necessarily say it was the best book I've read or that it was extremely memorable, but I did like what it did for me. As a reader. It was an enjoyable reading adventure that gave me a nice set of characters that told a good story. The inconsistencies of the characters really weighed down on my experience, but I would recommend this read, if you're looking for something new and not too heavy!
November 10, 2014
I fell in love with S.L. Scott’s Inside Out series so I knew that I had to try The Resistance. After reading The Resistance I was so excited to see that Rochelle gets her own book. She went through so much heartache in the previous book. I wanted her to get a second chance at a happy ending. Then I found out who her knight in not so shining armor was going to be and I was sold.
Rochelle has been through a horrible tragedy. While giving birth to her newborn Cory was in a plane accident. There were no survivors. Now she has to figure out how to grieve and be both the mother and father to her two children. The majority of this book takes place almost three years after the funeral. Rochelle is lonely and now she is wondering if dating is too soon or is it possible to start thinking about it. Then the unexpected happens. She starts to get feeling for the one person she probably shouldn’t. Dex. The bad boy of The Resistance.
This book was really emotional for Rochelle. She has to try and fight emotions that she has for another man because she still feels guilt over Cory. She is a great mother and an overall strong character. She is caring and talented. I was a little disappointed she kept throwing Dex’s past in his face when he was trying his hardest to change. I get she was trying to get through a bad time but my heart broke for Dex.
Dex is The Resistance’s bad boy. With a history of sleeping around, drug use, and over drinking. There really was nowhere for him to go but rehab. Dex is fighting the guilt he feels for being happy he finally gets a chance with Rochelle. The person he has loved for years. Now when he is trying to be a better man the world doesn’t allow him to be. All everyone sees is the bad boy he has always been. Now he just wants Rochelle to see the man he is one the inside.
My heart broke for Dex. He has been in love with Rochelle for years and now with the situation the way it is he might not get the HEA he has always wanted. Everyone keeps making them feel what they feel is wrong. Dex is caring, passionate, and loving. All he needed was a chance. He was a pretty complex character. There was so much going on with him and he had to take it slow. He couldn’t jump in like he wanted. Both Rochelle and Dex had to work through their emotions before anything good could come from their relationship.
I laughed, I cried, I cheered, and I face-palmed many times during this book. S.L. Scott takes you on an emotional rollercoaster with this book. The journey to get to the HEA they both deserved was rough. I wanted to reach through my kindle and knock their heads together. But Dex and Rochelle are proof that if you fight for something it might just be worth it in the end.
S.L. Scott really knows how to write a story. She sucks you in and makes you as much a part of her story as her characters. Scott is able to create a story that is so genuine and real you can’t help but fall in love. She creates characters that you fall in love with and can’t help but want to know. I was happy that S.L. Scott didn’t take the predictable follow up route after The Resistance. She created a completely new and original story with characters we already know. This book is everything that I wanted from an S.L. Scott book and so much more!
Read more of my reviews here...
Rochelle has been through a horrible tragedy. While giving birth to her newborn Cory was in a plane accident. There were no survivors. Now she has to figure out how to grieve and be both the mother and father to her two children. The majority of this book takes place almost three years after the funeral. Rochelle is lonely and now she is wondering if dating is too soon or is it possible to start thinking about it. Then the unexpected happens. She starts to get feeling for the one person she probably shouldn’t. Dex. The bad boy of The Resistance.
This book was really emotional for Rochelle. She has to try and fight emotions that she has for another man because she still feels guilt over Cory. She is a great mother and an overall strong character. She is caring and talented. I was a little disappointed she kept throwing Dex’s past in his face when he was trying his hardest to change. I get she was trying to get through a bad time but my heart broke for Dex.
Dex is The Resistance’s bad boy. With a history of sleeping around, drug use, and over drinking. There really was nowhere for him to go but rehab. Dex is fighting the guilt he feels for being happy he finally gets a chance with Rochelle. The person he has loved for years. Now when he is trying to be a better man the world doesn’t allow him to be. All everyone sees is the bad boy he has always been. Now he just wants Rochelle to see the man he is one the inside.
My heart broke for Dex. He has been in love with Rochelle for years and now with the situation the way it is he might not get the HEA he has always wanted. Everyone keeps making them feel what they feel is wrong. Dex is caring, passionate, and loving. All he needed was a chance. He was a pretty complex character. There was so much going on with him and he had to take it slow. He couldn’t jump in like he wanted. Both Rochelle and Dex had to work through their emotions before anything good could come from their relationship.
I laughed, I cried, I cheered, and I face-palmed many times during this book. S.L. Scott takes you on an emotional rollercoaster with this book. The journey to get to the HEA they both deserved was rough. I wanted to reach through my kindle and knock their heads together. But Dex and Rochelle are proof that if you fight for something it might just be worth it in the end.
S.L. Scott really knows how to write a story. She sucks you in and makes you as much a part of her story as her characters. Scott is able to create a story that is so genuine and real you can’t help but fall in love. She creates characters that you fall in love with and can’t help but want to know. I was happy that S.L. Scott didn’t take the predictable follow up route after The Resistance. She created a completely new and original story with characters we already know. This book is everything that I wanted from an S.L. Scott book and so much more!
Read more of my reviews here...
October 27, 2014
The Redemption. 4.5 Stars
I first came across S.L.Scotts work when I first read The Resistance. I absolutely loved that book and S.L Scotts writing style. Since then I've read a few more of her books as I really enjoyed how she makes you feel part of the book, and really the brings the characters to life. She makes it feel like your living your life with the characters.
So when i saw The redemption, I was defiantly going to be reading it as I no I'll be getting a good story, and the cover was so hot, broody and sexy it made me want to dive right in.
The book wasn't at all what I was expecting. I was expecting it to be abit of a sad book by the blurb, I however didn't expect it to be completly heartbreaking and deeply emotional like it was.
Rochelle had her dream, but it was brutally ripped away from her and she lost everything. She however never expected to see the Bad boy of rock and super star Dex to be their for her at her desperate time if need. She had always known that Dex was the everything she never wanted, what with his sex, drugs and Rock and roll life style, but some how, the connections there between them. He's helped her so much. Is it all worth the risk after all the heartbreak they've already had to cope with.
It was so heart breaking watching both Rochelle and Dex fighting their feelings for each other because even though there a connection, neither is sure they can get past the emotions of the past, if they can move in from the guilt thetpyve both held on to all these years and the worst part, everytime they look at each other, it reminds them both of the worst day of their lives. It is truely heart breaking. The author did such a amazing job again at bringing out all the emotion she could in the characters and the story, do that the reader could connect and fully understand there pain and struggles.
This wasn't a easy book to read as I said it us very emotional. There is a few humourious places throughout to break up the sadness and sorrow.
I wanted Richelle and Dex to get together so badly and have their happy ever after that they both deserved, but unfortunately there are a lot of hurdles and heart ache to get iver before they can even get close to a happy ever after. You know from the start there perfect together, it's just how they get to that end line.
Both characters were great and well developed. You can't help but fall in love with both of them. Dex maybe the bad boy of rock, with with Rochelle, he's nothing like that. The author bought the characters alive and like I said at the beginning, I felt like I was living my life along side them. I felt there pain, I felt there tension, I felt there need for one another and confusion and I felt them fighting it too.
The ending was perfect. I couldn't think of a better ending than what the author wrote.
Another great book by S.L Scott. This is a must read, but make sure you have your tissues handy. And if you've never read any book by the author before then you don't no what your missing out on. Go buy this now.
I first came across S.L.Scotts work when I first read The Resistance. I absolutely loved that book and S.L Scotts writing style. Since then I've read a few more of her books as I really enjoyed how she makes you feel part of the book, and really the brings the characters to life. She makes it feel like your living your life with the characters.
So when i saw The redemption, I was defiantly going to be reading it as I no I'll be getting a good story, and the cover was so hot, broody and sexy it made me want to dive right in.
The book wasn't at all what I was expecting. I was expecting it to be abit of a sad book by the blurb, I however didn't expect it to be completly heartbreaking and deeply emotional like it was.
Rochelle had her dream, but it was brutally ripped away from her and she lost everything. She however never expected to see the Bad boy of rock and super star Dex to be their for her at her desperate time if need. She had always known that Dex was the everything she never wanted, what with his sex, drugs and Rock and roll life style, but some how, the connections there between them. He's helped her so much. Is it all worth the risk after all the heartbreak they've already had to cope with.
It was so heart breaking watching both Rochelle and Dex fighting their feelings for each other because even though there a connection, neither is sure they can get past the emotions of the past, if they can move in from the guilt thetpyve both held on to all these years and the worst part, everytime they look at each other, it reminds them both of the worst day of their lives. It is truely heart breaking. The author did such a amazing job again at bringing out all the emotion she could in the characters and the story, do that the reader could connect and fully understand there pain and struggles.
This wasn't a easy book to read as I said it us very emotional. There is a few humourious places throughout to break up the sadness and sorrow.
I wanted Richelle and Dex to get together so badly and have their happy ever after that they both deserved, but unfortunately there are a lot of hurdles and heart ache to get iver before they can even get close to a happy ever after. You know from the start there perfect together, it's just how they get to that end line.
Both characters were great and well developed. You can't help but fall in love with both of them. Dex maybe the bad boy of rock, with with Rochelle, he's nothing like that. The author bought the characters alive and like I said at the beginning, I felt like I was living my life along side them. I felt there pain, I felt there tension, I felt there need for one another and confusion and I felt them fighting it too.
The ending was perfect. I couldn't think of a better ending than what the author wrote.
Another great book by S.L Scott. This is a must read, but make sure you have your tissues handy. And if you've never read any book by the author before then you don't no what your missing out on. Go buy this now.
June 20, 2015
There were many things that I liked about The Redemption and many things that I could have done without. It’s time like these that make being a book blogger hard because, while I could never be an author and I have the utmost respect for them, sometimes books give you a little awe but not a full blown awe like you want.
I liked Rochelle and Dex’s characters and I liked the fact that Dex has always loved Rochelle even when she was married to Cory but stayed away because he was Dex’s best friend. I There were many things that I liked about The Redemption and many things that I could have done without. It’s time like these that make being a book blogger hard because, while I could never be an author and I have the utmost respect for them, sometimes books give you a little awe but not a full blown awe like you want.
I liked Rochelle and Dex’s characters and I liked the fact that Dex has always loved Rochelle even when she was married to Cory but stayed away because he was Dex’s best friend. I liked how both Rochelle and Dex have this tattered life that they are both working on and know that while they do so badly want each other, that they have to fix themselves before becoming a couple. What use are you going to be in a relationship if you can’t love yourself? This was a huge theme that I kept see popping up throughout the story. Now, with that being said—or typed—this is one of the things that got me the most. It was this constant pull of “I need you. You are the only one for me. You make me better,” and the push of “I am not worthy of you. I can’t be with you. I’ll only break you,” that was kind of excessive in my eyes. I was a rollercoaster of “be with me” and in a few days it would be “we can’t be together.” It got old—fast!
Now on to more good things that I liked: I loved how Dex treated Rochelle’s boys in the story. It was so cute to see him teach them how to play the drums and all the sweet things that he did for him. This let me know that he truly did love Rochelle even if he was a complete jerk to her sometimes. I liked how, because of Cory’s death, Rochelle was damaged. It takes a while for the reader to get to the point where she realizes that loving Dex does not mean that she no longer loves Cory. Sometimes I feel like books will just skip over the mourning phase and go straight in to the ‘I love another man’ phase. Rochelle or Dex are not 100% perfect in this book and that is what makes them life-like characters.
I don’t know the background of all the characters because this is the first book that I have read in the series so maybe if I knew more, I would have formed another opinion, but all in all, it was good.
~BookWhisperer Reviewer MC~
I liked Rochelle and Dex’s characters and I liked the fact that Dex has always loved Rochelle even when she was married to Cory but stayed away because he was Dex’s best friend. I There were many things that I liked about The Redemption and many things that I could have done without. It’s time like these that make being a book blogger hard because, while I could never be an author and I have the utmost respect for them, sometimes books give you a little awe but not a full blown awe like you want.
I liked Rochelle and Dex’s characters and I liked the fact that Dex has always loved Rochelle even when she was married to Cory but stayed away because he was Dex’s best friend. I liked how both Rochelle and Dex have this tattered life that they are both working on and know that while they do so badly want each other, that they have to fix themselves before becoming a couple. What use are you going to be in a relationship if you can’t love yourself? This was a huge theme that I kept see popping up throughout the story. Now, with that being said—or typed—this is one of the things that got me the most. It was this constant pull of “I need you. You are the only one for me. You make me better,” and the push of “I am not worthy of you. I can’t be with you. I’ll only break you,” that was kind of excessive in my eyes. I was a rollercoaster of “be with me” and in a few days it would be “we can’t be together.” It got old—fast!
Now on to more good things that I liked: I loved how Dex treated Rochelle’s boys in the story. It was so cute to see him teach them how to play the drums and all the sweet things that he did for him. This let me know that he truly did love Rochelle even if he was a complete jerk to her sometimes. I liked how, because of Cory’s death, Rochelle was damaged. It takes a while for the reader to get to the point where she realizes that loving Dex does not mean that she no longer loves Cory. Sometimes I feel like books will just skip over the mourning phase and go straight in to the ‘I love another man’ phase. Rochelle or Dex are not 100% perfect in this book and that is what makes them life-like characters.
I don’t know the background of all the characters because this is the first book that I have read in the series so maybe if I knew more, I would have formed another opinion, but all in all, it was good.
~BookWhisperer Reviewer MC~
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 5, 2015
The Redemption by S.L. Scott is a book that can be read as a stand-alone but is best read after The Resistance as they share the same characters and it takes place after events that occur in The Resistance. Plus you should just really read The Resistance if you haven't yet!
So this story focuses on Rochelle who is just barely getting past a tragic loss in her life and Dex, the bad-boy drummer with The Resistance. What we never before realized is that Dex has always been in love with Rochelle, but until now kept it buried and lived his life without hope. Cory's death has awakened hope in him but also a massive amount of guilt. The loss of Cory was devastating not only to Rochelle but to every member of the band. Dex lost a brother when Cory died and now the feelings he has towards Rochelle stir him in a way that has never happened before.
Oh the ANGST - Man oh man oh man. Rochelle and Dex are both big fat huge messes in their own right. Rochelle can't get out of her own head and sorrow and guilt for long enough to give moving on a chance. Her mother-in-law does NOT help either! and Dex, well Dex knows what he wants but every time he gets close and gets pushed away or turned down he's at risk of spiraling back into his destructive bad-habits. He's the bad-boy drummer with a history of drug problems and rehab, and he does nothing but help cultivate that self-image.
The problem with books with dual POV's is that as a reader we see more and know more and get frustrated with the apparent blindness of the characters. It's like watching a horror movie and screaming at the girl running into the forest "Don't go in there, that's where the killer is". My analogy is in no way meaning I view this book as a horror story, but the strength emotion it pulled form me was one where I was desperately wanting to yell at the characters "Don't be blind, really see him (or her)" "Don't listen to gossip, listen to your heart" etc, etc, etc.
S.L. Scott has done it again. Another powerhouse romance under the belt. Amazing.
So this story focuses on Rochelle who is just barely getting past a tragic loss in her life and Dex, the bad-boy drummer with The Resistance. What we never before realized is that Dex has always been in love with Rochelle, but until now kept it buried and lived his life without hope. Cory's death has awakened hope in him but also a massive amount of guilt. The loss of Cory was devastating not only to Rochelle but to every member of the band. Dex lost a brother when Cory died and now the feelings he has towards Rochelle stir him in a way that has never happened before.
Oh the ANGST - Man oh man oh man. Rochelle and Dex are both big fat huge messes in their own right. Rochelle can't get out of her own head and sorrow and guilt for long enough to give moving on a chance. Her mother-in-law does NOT help either! and Dex, well Dex knows what he wants but every time he gets close and gets pushed away or turned down he's at risk of spiraling back into his destructive bad-habits. He's the bad-boy drummer with a history of drug problems and rehab, and he does nothing but help cultivate that self-image.
The problem with books with dual POV's is that as a reader we see more and know more and get frustrated with the apparent blindness of the characters. It's like watching a horror movie and screaming at the girl running into the forest "Don't go in there, that's where the killer is". My analogy is in no way meaning I view this book as a horror story, but the strength emotion it pulled form me was one where I was desperately wanting to yell at the characters "Don't be blind, really see him (or her)" "Don't listen to gossip, listen to your heart" etc, etc, etc.
S.L. Scott has done it again. Another powerhouse romance under the belt. Amazing.
November 3, 2014
Losing someone in your life due to a plane crash is the worst thing ever. And I say this because it just sucks hard when you can’t look at your beloved one last time, or feel their skin under your fingertips.
Rochelle Floros is drowning in the pain of losing the one thing she valued in her life to one of such accidents. And now it looks like everything has fallen apart with not one thing in her life that seems to be going her way. But the thing I admired about this girl? She keeps a strong façade, even though she feels anything but, and she does it well enough that everyone believes her.
Almost everyone believes her.
Dex is the bad boy drummer of the group The Resistance—and the exact same bad boy of the band no one wants to deal with. He has a history with drugs and he’s the typical love ‘em and leave ‘em type of guy.
He’s also madly in love with Rochelle Floros.
How do you save an unsalvageable soul that doesn’t want to be saved?
Revealing the connection between these two is a huge spoiler in itself so I’m going to refrain from doing that.
I think apart from learning to let go and move on, this books deals with friendship and how it has the power to give you the strength when you have none. Johnny and Rochelle’s friendship was so beautiful, I almost called my own bestie and ugly-cried.
This book is so full of twists and turns, being pulled in different directions and living a life that’s given you nothing but tears that I thought about giving this book up. Every time Dex fell back into his old habits, I had to stop myself from shutting of my Kindle and not continuing to read this book again.
Both Rochelle and Dex are pushed to their limits and it’s almost a wonder that they come back swinging. Definite recommendation for lovers of bad boys that have really always been good.
Find this review and more at Rhea's Neon Journal
Rochelle Floros is drowning in the pain of losing the one thing she valued in her life to one of such accidents. And now it looks like everything has fallen apart with not one thing in her life that seems to be going her way. But the thing I admired about this girl? She keeps a strong façade, even though she feels anything but, and she does it well enough that everyone believes her.
Almost everyone believes her.
Dex is the bad boy drummer of the group The Resistance—and the exact same bad boy of the band no one wants to deal with. He has a history with drugs and he’s the typical love ‘em and leave ‘em type of guy.
He’s also madly in love with Rochelle Floros.
How do you save an unsalvageable soul that doesn’t want to be saved?
Revealing the connection between these two is a huge spoiler in itself so I’m going to refrain from doing that.
I think apart from learning to let go and move on, this books deals with friendship and how it has the power to give you the strength when you have none. Johnny and Rochelle’s friendship was so beautiful, I almost called my own bestie and ugly-cried.
This book is so full of twists and turns, being pulled in different directions and living a life that’s given you nothing but tears that I thought about giving this book up. Every time Dex fell back into his old habits, I had to stop myself from shutting of my Kindle and not continuing to read this book again.
Both Rochelle and Dex are pushed to their limits and it’s almost a wonder that they come back swinging. Definite recommendation for lovers of bad boys that have really always been good.
Find this review and more at Rhea's Neon Journal
November 21, 2014
This book may have taken me over two weeks to read (so unlike me) but I loved it all the same. I didn't want to put it down, but unfortunately life got in the way, and I had no choice. Most importantly, The Redemption was a great read and one I would definitely recommend.
Rochelle and Dex are an unlikely couple, but a couple that work.. and work really well. Rochelle is a grieving widower who finds comfort in Dex, the reckless musician that everybody else has given up on. Including himself.
Dex has kept his love for Rochelle a secret for years. He fell for her the first day he ever met her, 11 years prior. Unfortunately, for him she was taken and he had to bide his time, waiting to be the man that she needed. Honestly, by the time Rochelle was in a position to be dating again, I expected her to be a little easier on her man of choice.. I couldn't have been more wrong. There was a lot of back and forth from Rochelle, lots of 'should I? Or shouldn't I?' when it comes to her and Dex and yes, it is understandably so, but at times it was a little too much and I got bored of reading it. We all knew what she wanted and who she wanted, so a lot of it was unnecessary. It made me feel bad for Dex a lot of the time.
The story itself wasn't anything totally out there, it wasn't really unique or unusual, but that's fine. It was an easy read and sometimes that's exactly what I need. Yes there was the odd emotional part, or something that would really make me laugh out loud, but on the whole I just found it easy to read.
*Reviewing for The Hopeless Romantics Book Blog as part of the 'The Redemption' blog tour.*
Rochelle and Dex are an unlikely couple, but a couple that work.. and work really well. Rochelle is a grieving widower who finds comfort in Dex, the reckless musician that everybody else has given up on. Including himself.
"There's a void that music can't fill, that other women won't fix, that drugs won't blur, and that time won't relent. My drug of choice these days is you."
Dex has kept his love for Rochelle a secret for years. He fell for her the first day he ever met her, 11 years prior. Unfortunately, for him she was taken and he had to bide his time, waiting to be the man that she needed. Honestly, by the time Rochelle was in a position to be dating again, I expected her to be a little easier on her man of choice.. I couldn't have been more wrong. There was a lot of back and forth from Rochelle, lots of 'should I? Or shouldn't I?' when it comes to her and Dex and yes, it is understandably so, but at times it was a little too much and I got bored of reading it. We all knew what she wanted and who she wanted, so a lot of it was unnecessary. It made me feel bad for Dex a lot of the time.
"You're the melody I can't capture and the notes I can't hit. But I can't fight your pull, always gravitating toward your world, to you."
The story itself wasn't anything totally out there, it wasn't really unique or unusual, but that's fine. It was an easy read and sometimes that's exactly what I need. Yes there was the odd emotional part, or something that would really make me laugh out loud, but on the whole I just found it easy to read.
"You're my constant. My north. The only compass worth following."
*Reviewing for The Hopeless Romantics Book Blog as part of the 'The Redemption' blog tour.*
November 20, 2016
I sort of had mixed feelings for this book. On the one hand I loved that Dex was finally getting a chance with the one woman he has always loved and that Rochelle was finally able to move past her grief and find happiness again. But on the other hand, Dex's constant waffling back and forth made the story drag and just when I thought they'd finally get together for good, he'd pull back again and walk away. It was frustrating as a reader because I just felt a disconnect with them in those moments. The push and pull happened a few times too many and it made me pause in my reading a few times to pick up another book and then come back hoping I'd connect more. With that being said though, I did love Dex and Rochelle's story and I was rooting for them all along. Dex is the sort of character who is like a lost puppy dog---you want to take him home, nurture him and help him find the happiness he's been craving. I loved watching him grow and find himself along the way. On the surface, he seemed shallow and a total cliche---a recovering addict rock star who was a little lost and looking to find his way back. But underneath it all, he really was a complex man who was much deeper than anyone knew. As Rochelle drew that part of him out, he grew into himself and blossomed. Dex faced his past which helped him finally be ready for the future he deserved. It was interesting to watch Rochelle grieve, become stronger and then finally come to the realization that her deceased husband, Cory (one of Dex's bandmates and best friends) would want her to find happiness and live her life.
The Redemption was emotional, heartbreaking and sexy. It was an enjoyable read but I definitely felt it dragged a bit with Dex constantly pulling back. With that being said though, I do recommend the book because.....happily ever after for Dex and Rochelle!
The Redemption was emotional, heartbreaking and sexy. It was an enjoyable read but I definitely felt it dragged a bit with Dex constantly pulling back. With that being said though, I do recommend the book because.....happily ever after for Dex and Rochelle!
October 30, 2014
Title: The Redemption
Author: S.L. Scott
Series: Yes
Release Date: November 3, 2014
Rating: 4.00 – 4.25
Cliffhanger: No
Spoiler-free review
My head was spinning from this angst filled, rock and roll romance merry-go-round. I got so caught up in this "unputdownable" spin cycle and I couldn't put this book down.
The Redemption is a standalone novel based on characters from The Resistance. Both books share many of the same characters and background. I didn’t read The Resistance and I did not feel lost at any point.
Rochelle is widower, with two kids who lost her rock star husband Cory in a plane crash. Dex, the drummer in her dead husband’s band has been secretly in love with Rochelle forever. Dex’ wild existence of sex, drugs and music is taking its toll on him…again. He has been on a downward spiral masking the pain and guilt he has for loving his former buddy’s wife. Dex doesn’t think he is good enough for Rochelle. Rochelle doesn’t think she can truly ever move on from Cory. Their on again off again romance gave me emotional whiplash trying to keep up. The band’s name was perfect. The Resistance. These two were so resistant to letting go of the past, resisting a relationship and then finally couldn’t resist each other. I got so sucked into this story and ended up falling for Dex myself! I really enjoyed this heartfelt rock romance. Go one click this one. I’m going to buy The Resistance.
This review appears on www.kindlecrack.net,www.facebook.com/..., Goodreads, Amazon, Google+, Pinterest and Twitter. A review copy of this book was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Review to follow :)
Author: S.L. Scott
Series: Yes
Release Date: November 3, 2014
Rating: 4.00 – 4.25
Cliffhanger: No
Spoiler-free review
My head was spinning from this angst filled, rock and roll romance merry-go-round. I got so caught up in this "unputdownable" spin cycle and I couldn't put this book down.
The Redemption is a standalone novel based on characters from The Resistance. Both books share many of the same characters and background. I didn’t read The Resistance and I did not feel lost at any point.
Rochelle is widower, with two kids who lost her rock star husband Cory in a plane crash. Dex, the drummer in her dead husband’s band has been secretly in love with Rochelle forever. Dex’ wild existence of sex, drugs and music is taking its toll on him…again. He has been on a downward spiral masking the pain and guilt he has for loving his former buddy’s wife. Dex doesn’t think he is good enough for Rochelle. Rochelle doesn’t think she can truly ever move on from Cory. Their on again off again romance gave me emotional whiplash trying to keep up. The band’s name was perfect. The Resistance. These two were so resistant to letting go of the past, resisting a relationship and then finally couldn’t resist each other. I got so sucked into this story and ended up falling for Dex myself! I really enjoyed this heartfelt rock romance. Go one click this one. I’m going to buy The Resistance.
This review appears on www.kindlecrack.net,www.facebook.com/..., Goodreads, Amazon, Google+, Pinterest and Twitter. A review copy of this book was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Review to follow :)
November 2, 2014
3 stars
The Redemption is the next book by SL Scott. While not a series, it continues on with the same characters as The Resistance.
Rochelle and Dex get their own book. If you read the first book, you know Rochelle has had a rough few months. She was pregnant with her second child, when her husband was killed in a plane crash. Now she is raining her two sons alone. She is heartbroken, and at a loss.Who wouldn't be?
Dex, is the Drummer in the band The Resistance, He is part of the band that Rochelle's late husband played for. Rochelle has known Dex for a while. They have been friends. Now she is looking at him in a new light. Dex has been in love with Rochelle for a long while. Dex has a lot of issues. Big ones, that play a role in keeping the couple apart. Dex broke my heart with all that he was going through.
I don't want to give away too much of the story, so I am going to keep this short. There is a lot of push and pull in this plot Dex and Rochelle have a rough go at things, but really seem to want to make it work.
The Redemption is the next book by SL Scott. While not a series, it continues on with the same characters as The Resistance.
Rochelle and Dex get their own book. If you read the first book, you know Rochelle has had a rough few months. She was pregnant with her second child, when her husband was killed in a plane crash. Now she is raining her two sons alone. She is heartbroken, and at a loss.Who wouldn't be?
Dex, is the Drummer in the band The Resistance, He is part of the band that Rochelle's late husband played for. Rochelle has known Dex for a while. They have been friends. Now she is looking at him in a new light. Dex has been in love with Rochelle for a long while. Dex has a lot of issues. Big ones, that play a role in keeping the couple apart. Dex broke my heart with all that he was going through.
I don't want to give away too much of the story, so I am going to keep this short. There is a lot of push and pull in this plot Dex and Rochelle have a rough go at things, but really seem to want to make it work.
April 30, 2016
It may seem that I give five stars away to a lot of books. Here's the thing....I love reading. It has to have good characters, good grammar, nice flow of development, and I'm good. A few twists, some delightful romance, sexy scenes, a challenge or two, and I'm good. This had it all. Very enjoyable read...
May 16, 2016
4.5 stars for this great book
Dex is the drummer of the resistance
Rochelle is the widow of a band member
Grief, loneliness, love, lost, denial, angst..... A brilliant story!!! I loved this book and series
Dex is the drummer of the resistance
Rochelle is the widow of a band member
Grief, loneliness, love, lost, denial, angst..... A brilliant story!!! I loved this book and series
November 5, 2014
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review
This was the most heartfelt, heartwarming emotional read.
You fell in love with the book and also fell in love with the characters.
A well written read and you are glued to the pages right from the start.
A truly enjoyable read.
This was the most heartfelt, heartwarming emotional read.
You fell in love with the book and also fell in love with the characters.
A well written read and you are glued to the pages right from the start.
A truly enjoyable read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews